Troops foil terrorists’ attempt to abduct 150 travellers in Borno

Troops of Operation Hadin Kai on Monday successfully repelled an attack by Boko Haram insurgents while escorting travellers along the Buratai–Kamuya axis in Borno State, rescuing about 150 civilians in the process.

The Media Information Officer of the Northeast Joint Taskforce, Operation Hadin Kai, Lt. Col. Sani Uba, made this known in a statement issued Monday evening.

He explained that the insurgents had attempted to abduct a large group of civilians—men, women, and children—using approximately 17 vehicles to transport them into the bush.

The statement read, “Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have once again demonstrated impressive operational dominance and unwavering commitment to the protection of civilians by foiling a planned mass abduction by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists in Sector 2 of OPHK.

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“The incident occurred at about 1450 hours on 30 March 2026, when troops of OPHK under Sector 2 deployed at Dutse Kura, came under attack while escorting civilians along the Buratai–Kamuya axis.”

Uba added that while engaging the attackers, surveillance systems detected the insurgents attempting to move a large number of abducted civilians in multiple vehicles into the bush.

“In a swift and coordinated response, the Quick Reaction Force rapidly reinforced the location, repelled the attack, and immediately launched a pursuit towards the Mangari area,” he stated.

He further noted that the intense pressure from the troops forced the terrorists to abandon both the captives and the vehicles, effectively stopping the mass abduction.

“All rescued civilians, estimated at over 150, were safely recovered and moved to Buratai for onward movement to reunite with their families,” he said.

During the pursuit operation, troops reportedly encountered an improvised explosive device along the Bula Zarma–Mangari route.

“Five personnel sustained severe injuries and were promptly evacuated for specialist medical care. The sacrifice of our gallant troops underscores the resolve of OPHK to deny terrorists freedom of action and protect vulnerable populations across the Theatre,” he added.

Uba emphasized that the operation reflects the troops’ vigilance, quick response capability, and strong operational presence across the Northeast.

“It further reassures the populace of the military’s commitment to stabilisation efforts, protection of civilians and sustained offensive pressure on terrorist elements, particularly as the Easter period approaches,” he stated.

He also conveyed that the Military High Command praised the troops for their courage and resilience, urging them to maintain pressure on terrorist groups.

Recall, this newspaper reported that Operation Hadin Kai troops neutralised several insurgents during coordinated midnight attacks, as terrorists attempted to overrun military positions in parts of Borno State.

The attacks targeted areas including Konduga, Marte, Jakana, and Mainok.